The healthcare industry is experiencing substantial growth, with healthcare administration emerging as one of the most in-demand professions in the U.S. As the sector becomes more specialized and complex, the demand for skilled administrators who can manage healthcare operations effectively continues to rise.
The Eastern Washington University (EWU) online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a Healthcare Administration Concentration program prepares graduates with a wide range of skills for leadership roles in the growing healthcare industry. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 29% job growth rate for medical and health services managers between 2023 and 2033, well above the average for all professions. This demand makes healthcare administration a promising, stable career path with opportunities for advancement.
Healthcare Administration Vs. Healthcare Management
According to Indeed, healthcare administration is primarily concerned with overseeing the operational functions of healthcare facilities. This role involves managing budgets, ensuring regulatory compliance, hiring and training staff, and improving facility efficiency. Healthcare management typically addresses broader organizational strategies and long-term goals.
In contrast, healthcare administration is more hands-on, focusing on the day-to-day tasks that keep departments and facilities running smoothly. Administrators work directly with healthcare staff to address issues and optimize processes, supporting high-quality patient care and efficient service delivery.
The Rapid Growth of Healthcare Administration
According to BLS, several factors contribute to the rapid rise in healthcare administration careers, each highlighting the evolving needs and challenges within the U.S. healthcare system:
- An aging population and higher healthcare demand: As more people age, especially Baby Boomers, there is a greater need for healthcare services. According to the Population Reference Bureau (PRB), the population of Americans aged 65 and older is expected to grow significantly, increasing from 58 million in 2022 to 82 million by 2050. This age group will make up a larger portion of the total U.S. population, rising from 17% to 23% over this period.
- Advances in medical technology: New medical technology, such as digital health records and better diagnostic tools, is changing healthcare. Administrators help manage and use these tools to improve patient care and keep things running smoothly. As healthcare technology grows, the need for tech-savvy managers grows too.
- The complexity of the healthcare system: Healthcare involves many moving parts, from doctors to insurers to government rules. Administrators are needed to manage everything from compliance to budgets to quality control. As the system gets more complicated, managers must adapt to keep it running smoothly.
As healthcare evolves, the need for skilled administrators grows. With increasing demands for efficient management, advanced technology and smooth coordination, healthcare facilities will rely more on experienced leaders to keep things running well and ensure quality care. As a result, healthcare administration is a fast-growing field with many employment opportunities.
Executive-level Positions in Healthcare
In May 2023, the median annual salary for healthcare chief executives was $194,280, while medical and health services managers earned a median yearly salary of $110,680. These salaries are well above the national average for all occupations, reflecting the growing demand and complexity of healthcare administration. Executive positions, such as hospital CEOs, offer high compensation, substantial benefits and long-term career growth. An MBA provides a strong foundation for those seeking to advance to high-paying executive positions within the industry.
Prepare for a Career in Healthcare Administration
EWU’s online MBA in Healthcare Administration program equips students with essential skills for managing healthcare organizations. The program blends theory with practical learning, covering healthcare operations, leadership, financial planning, human resources and ethics. It provides flexibility for working professionals, preparing them for roles in healthcare management by offering a unique combination of business and healthcare expertise. Graduates gain the necessary tools to navigate the challenges of the evolving healthcare landscape, from entry-level positions to executive roles requiring strategic insight.
With the demand for skilled administrators rising, EWU’s program helps students develop the knowledge in clinical practices, regulatory compliance and business management to succeed in this expanding field. Graduates are equipped to thrive in administrative and management roles and lead organizations through the complexities of modern healthcare.
Learn more about Eastern Washington University’s online MBA with Healthcare Administration Concentration program.
